Family Adventure in Chiang Mai

Last Day in Paradise

It's hard to believe our Chiang Mai adventure has come to an end. Today was a day of reflection, savoring the last moments of this incredible journey with my family. We started with a peaceful escape to a waterfall, followed by some of the finest cuisine Chiang Mai has to offer, and ended with a toast to the memories we've created. It's been a whirlwind of temples, markets, and delicious food, and I'm already feeling nostalgic as we prepare to head back to Berlin tomorrow.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe de Thaan Aoan. Klara had been raving about their whole wheat pancakes, and Naomi was eager for a smoothie bowl. I decided to try their green curry fried rice, wanting one last hit of authentic Thai flavors before we left. The cafe was charming, with a lovely garden area, and the staff were incredibly kind. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our morning adventure.


Experience the best breakfast and dessert delights at Cafe de Thaan Aoan in Chiang Mai - where flavors meet tradition.

After breakfast, we set off to Mae Kampong Waterfall. The drive itself was stunning, winding through lush green mountains. Mae Kampong is a small village nestled in the hills, known for its eco-tourism and coffee plantations. As we drove, I couldn't help but think about how different this was from the concrete jungle of Berlin. The air was fresh, the scenery breathtaking, and the pace of life noticeably slower. It was exactly the kind of escape our family needed.


Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Mae Kampong Waterfall, a must-visit destination in Chiang Mai's lush landscapes.

The walk to the waterfall was a pleasant one, a gentle uphill stroll through a beautiful rainforest. Naomi, full of energy, skipped ahead, pointing out interesting plants and insects. Klara and I followed at a more leisurely pace, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. The waterfall itself wasn't massive, but it was beautiful, cascading down seven rocky steps. We spent some time relaxing by the falls, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and taking photos to capture the moment.

After our refreshing waterfall visit, it was time for lunch. We headed to Kiti Panit, a restaurant housed in a stunning 130-year-old teak mansion. This place was more than just a restaurant; it was a step back in time. The building had served as Chiang Mai's first general store, and the restoration was impeccable, preserving its heritage and natural beauty.


Discover authentic Thai cuisine at Kiti Panit in Chiang Mai - where tradition meets flavor in a historic setting.

The food at Kiti Panit was exceptional. We started with some Northern Thai staples: nam prik noom (spicy eggplant relish) and sai oua (northern-style sausage). For mains, Klara and I shared the khao soi, a Northern Thai curry noodle soup, while Naomi opted for grilled chicken. Every dish was bursting with flavor, a testament to the restaurant's commitment to authentic Lanna cuisine.

Sometimes, the most memorable travel experiences are the ones that engage all your senses – the taste of exotic flavors, the sights of breathtaking landscapes, and the sounds of a culture so different from your own.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Chiang Mai city for our final dinner. We chose the Oxygen Dining Room at Cross Chiang Mai Riverside, a Michelin Guide recommended establishment known for its innovative blend of Thai and French techniques. The restaurant was beautiful, nestled in a glasshouse overlooking the Ping River.


Experience exquisite fine dining with stunning river views at Oxygen Dining Room in Chiang Mai.

The menu was a work of art, featuring both Thai and degustation options. We decided to try a bit of everything. I started with the Atlantic Bluefin tuna two ways, while Klara opted for the Doi Saket Crayfish. For our main courses, I chose the lamb rack, and Klara went with the sea bass. Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, a symphony of flavors and textures that delighted the palate. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was perfect for a special occasion.

After dinner, we weren't quite ready to call it a night. We decided to check out Zoe in Yellow, a popular bar in the Old City. I'd heard it was a lively spot, and we were in the mood for some music and drinks. The bar was indeed buzzing, filled with a mix of locals and tourists. The music was a mix of EDM and hip-hop, and the atmosphere was electric.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chiang Mai at Zoe in Yellow, a lively night club and bar offering great music, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.

We ordered some cocktails and toasted to our incredible trip. Naomi, surprisingly, enjoyed the music and even did a little dance. It was a fun, carefree way to end our Chiang Mai adventure. Of course, I made sure Naomi didn't have anything alcoholic, she enjoyed a sparkling water with a grenadine, which made her feel like she was having a cocktail too!

Reflecting on our time here, I realize how much we've experienced as a family. From the bustling night markets to the serene temples, from the spicy street food to the fine dining restaurants, Chiang Mai has offered us a taste of everything. It's been a journey of discovery, not just of a new place, but also of ourselves as a family.

I'm especially grateful for the opportunity to share my love of travel and culture with Naomi. Seeing the world through her eyes has been a truly rewarding experience. She's embraced every new experience with enthusiasm, from trying new foods to learning about different customs. I know that these memories will stay with her for a lifetime.

Klara, as always, has been my rock, my partner in adventure. Her organizational skills and attention to detail have made this trip seamless and stress-free. And her willingness to try new things and embrace the unknown has made it all the more enjoyable. I couldn't ask for a better travel companion.

As we pack our bags tonight, I'm filled with a mix of emotions. Sadness that our adventure is coming to an end, but also gratitude for the memories we've created. Chiang Mai has captured our hearts, and I know we'll be back someday. But for now, it's time to say goodbye and prepare for our journey back to Berlin. I'm sure Naomi will be happy to see our cat again!

Tomorrow, we fly back to Berlin, with a layover in Bangkok. It's going to be a long day of travel, but I know it will be worth it. We'll be returning home with our hearts full of memories and our minds enriched by new experiences. And who knows, maybe this trip will inspire me to add some new Thai dishes to the menu at Yaad Vibes!

Until next time, Chiang Mai. You've been unforgettable!

Goodbye from Robert, Klara and Naomi!